Plot Summary

Boys Without Names

Kashmira Sheth
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Boys Without Names

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010

Book Brief

Kashmira Sheth

Boys Without Names

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mumbai, India • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

670L

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Super Short Summary

Set in India, Kashmira Sheth’s young-adult novel, Boys Without Names (2010), follows eleven-year-old Gopal, who, in an attempt to save his impoverished family, travels to Mumbai for work but is trapped in an abusive sweatshop. Locked with five other boys, Gopal shares “kahanis” to bond with them, finding courage and hope as they plan their escape. Sensitive topics include child exploitation and abusive labor conditions.

Emotional

Challenging

Hopeful

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

2,963 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Boys Without Names by Kashmira Sheth offers an evocative portrayal of child labor through an engaging narrative, resonating deeply with readers. The authenticity of the characters and the vivid depiction of their plight are highly praised. However, some found the pacing slow and certain plot elements predictable. Overall, it remains a compelling and insightful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Boys Without Names?

Fans of A Long Walk to Water and I Am Malala will appreciate Boys Without Names. Readers who are drawn to emotionally resonant stories about resilience, family bonds, and social justice set in culturally rich backdrops will find this book compelling and thought-provoking. Suitable for middle-grade and young adult audiences.

4.3

2,963 ratings

74%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Mumbai, India • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

670L

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